By | Torri Paveloi
Are microtrends finally over? As we move into the Fall/Winter 2024 season, I’ve noticed a major decline in microtrends due to the overconsumption and oversaturation in the fashion industry. For those unfamiliar with microtrends, I’d describe them as short-lived trends that emerge quickly and gain popularity rapidly. These microtrends aren’t limited to fashion but are present across popular culture. It feels like every week, there’s a new trend, aesthetic, or product in the spotlight, largely fueled by social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. And with every trend comes constant promotion from different creators—it seems like every other video as you scroll is an ad for a new product. My generation is growing tired of these fleeting trends and the pressure to buy into what’s popular at the moment, instead of finding and developing a personal style.
After talking with a few of my roommates, I found that they, too, are tired of microtrends and don’t want to buy into them anymore. Peyton Schweitzer said, “One of the microtrends I’m growing sick of is the cowgirl aesthetic. Don’t get me wrong, I love dressing country to follow a theme, but I noticed at Homecoming, every girl was wearing the same pair of white cowgirl boots. While I think it’s a cute trend, I would’ve loved to see different styles of boots—it felt like everyone was looking the same.” I also discussed microtrends with Nick Pepper, who shared what he’s tired of: “I think microtrends can work if you add your personal touch. For example, I think pairing jerseys with a ruffle skirt or shorts is cute, but that’s all anyone seems to be wearing now.” It’s hard to keep up with all these microtrends, especially with how expensive clothing has become.
Rather than adopting entire aesthetics, consumers are starting to pull elements from different styles and incorporate them into their own unique looks. Microtrends primarily benefit fast fashion brands, driving overconsumption and waste. While microtrends haven’t disappeared entirely, our generation is collectively trying to be more mindful of the planet and is taking steps toward reducing our reliance on them. I believe we’re on the path to ending microtrends for good.
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